Sam Harris, author of Letter to a Christian Nation and End of Faith argues that we need to stop treating faith as an untouchable subject. Just as we expect people to defend their political beliefs, we should also expect them to defend their religious beliefs. Simply answering, “It’s just what I believe,” should not entitle anyone to a lack of critical inquiry.

I know that the host cut the debate short, but I think Hewitt skirted the final issue by simply telling Harris his ideas weren’t new. This may be true, but doesn’t address the actual point Harris was making.

There’s been some heavy stuff on this blog in the last little while, so here’s a video to make you smile — theist and atheist alike.

Blogger Doug from dougsploitation premiered a video by ska praise-band Sonseed called “Jesus is a Friend of Mine” a few weeks ago. Ever since then, it’s been a source of online controversy. Real? Or a goofy jab at praise music?

The general feeling on the interwebs is that it’s legit. But really, who cares? The song is catchy, and the words are good for a chuckle.

Choice lyrics (1:40):

Once I tried to run,
I tried to run and hide.
But Jesus came and found me,
And he touched me down inside.

He is like a mountie,
He always gets his man,
And he’ll zap you any way he can…
Zap!

On most demographic surveys that deal with religion, you’ll see many of the major faiths represented, and then a catch-all category for “Atheist or Agnostic.” This contributes to the popular confusion surrounding these identities.